As summer draws to a sultry close, the Florida Keys are preparing to raise a margarita—or perhaps two—in honour of the man who helped put them on the map. Just a Few Friends Key West, now in its second year, returns this Labor Day weekend (Friday, August 29 to Monday, September 1), offering a sun-soaked celebration of the music, life, and easygoing ethos of the late Jimmy Buffett.
Buffett, the unofficial patron saint of island escapism, first set foot in Key West in the 1970s. With his breezy blend of rock, country and Caribbean sounds—later dubbed “tropical rock”—he captured the spirit of the Conch Republic and turned a sleepy island town into a cultural touchstone for millions of Parrotheads worldwide. It’s only fitting, then, that Key West becomes the stage for this lovingly crafted tribute.
Just a Few Friends Key West : Where the Party Meets Paradise
Centred at venues across the island, Just a Few Friends Key West promises both revelry and reflection. The Cheeseburger Beach Battle & Tribute Concert at the Southernmost Beach Resort headlines the programme—an ode to Buffett’s iconic “Cheeseburger in Paradise”—featuring a lineup of musicians with direct ties to the man himself. Expect appearances from Nadirah Shakoor, longtime vocalist for Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band; Keys favourites Howard Livingston & the Mile Marker 24 Band; and singer-songwriter Will Kimbrough, Buffett’s collaborator on tracks like “Bubbles Up.”
A full list of performers can be found here.
But this isn’t just about music. The weekend is peppered with quirky, quintessentially Key West experiences. Think Margarita Bar Strolls through Duval Street and the Historic Seaport, a Second Line-style memorial procession through Old Town, and the Coconut Telegraph Trolley Tour—a nod to Buffett’s lyrical lore. Sailing excursions, author talks, and a proclamation by city officials round out a packed itinerary.
Why You Should Go To Just a Few Friends Key West
This isn’t your average festival—it’s a heartfelt homage. Organizer Paul Menta, a well-known Key West chef and community advocate, says it best: “Jimmy Buffett gave so much to this island—through music, tourism, and his unshakable love of the Keys.” That spirit of generosity permeates the event. Proceeds from VIP badge sales support local nonprofits including Reef Relief, the Bahama Village Music Program, and the Key West High School Marching Band.
Whether you’re a lifelong Parrothead or simply someone in search of good music and better vibes, Just a Few Friends Key West is your invitation to unplug, unwind, and embrace the island state of mind. Family-friendly events make it suitable for all ages, and the welcoming atmosphere reflects the open-hearted philosophy Buffett embodied.
Getting There and Staying Put
Key West is easily accessible by plane, car, or ferry. Direct flights arrive daily from cities including Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Atlanta. If you’re up for a road trip, the drive down the Overseas Highway is one of America’s most scenic, offering great views and plenty of pit stops along the way. Once on the island, everything’s delightfully walkable—or you can opt for one of the local trolleys or bikes to cruise like a local.
For more information on the things to do in Key West, visit: https://fla-keys.com/.
Hotel packages and badges are available now, but they’re expected to go fast. More information, including full event listings and ticket options, is available at the event website.
So dust off your flip-flops, grab your loudest Hawaiian shirt, and head south. After all, it’s not just a party—it’s Just a Few Friends Key West. And in Buffett’s world, that’s more than enough.
Main image : Just a Few Friends, Credit Carol Shaughnessy, Florida Keys News Bureau
